The warning follows the theft of salmon from the new tribal hatchery near Chief Joseph Dam.

According to Cmdr. Tom Holsworth, the fish were treated with Formalin, a Formaldehyde-based substance.

The fish “are not fit for human consumption and can cause serious medical problems,” he said Tuesday morning. “Please be cautious of anyone selling salmon outside of a licensed and certified business. If you have purchased or eaten any salmon from a roadside-type vendor in the past few days you should seek medical treatment as a precaution.”

Holsworth said anyone with information on the theft should also contact the Colville Tribal Police Department at 800-551-5800.

The tribal Fish and Wildlife Department is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of anyone involved in the theft, Holsworth said.